Episodes

  • 7 Types of Rest You Didn’t Know Your ADHD Brain Desperately Needs

    7 Types of Rest You Didn’t Know Your ADHD Brain Desperately Needs
    Apr 26 2025

    In this enlightening episode of Authentically ADHD, host Sunny Sparks takes us on a whimsical journey into the science and art of rest—especially tailored for those of us with ADHD. The episode kicks off with a warm welcome and a reminder that true self-care isn’t one-size-fits-all. Sunny introduces the “ADHD & Rest Tango,” explaining how the unique wiring of ADHD brains—characterized by altered dopamine dynamics, delayed sleep phase syndrome, and sensory overload—can make winding down a nightly challenge.

    The conversation then dives into the research behind why sleep can be so elusive, from our racing thoughts and creative bursts at midnight to environmental factors like blue light from screens. This sets the stage for exploring the “Seven Kingdoms of Rest”: physical, mental, emotional, sensory, creative, social, and spiritual. Each kingdom is described as a vital aspect of our well-being that needs its own form of rest to help balance our lives.

    Sunny offers a creative self-diagnostic tip by encouraging listeners to imagine their energy levels as a vibrant, multi-colored pie chart. By mapping daily activities to these seven types of rest, we learn how to identify which areas may be undernourished—transforming our self-care routine into an artful process of balance.

    To wrap up, the episode presents a practical 7-tip self-care segment, sharing real-life examples for each type of rest—from setting up a power nap schedule for physical rest to dedicating time for mindful sunrise moments for spiritual rest. Sunny concludes with an uplifting call-to-action to experiment with these strategies, reminding listeners that rest is not a luxury but a necessity for thriving with ADHD.

    Stay authentic, take time for each piece of your rest puzzle, and keep shining—even if it means burning the midnight oil sometimes!

    If today’s episode resonated with you, share it with someone who might benefit and consider leaving a rating & review to help Authentically ADHD grow.

    Show notes: https://www.canva.com/design/DAGjTbREIYI/sFGNEj879Ye4x_zWl-W76Q/view?utm_content=DAGjTbREIYI&utm_campaign=designshare&utm_medium=link2&utm_source=uniquelinks&utlId=h8496660196

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    This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit carmenauthenticallyadhd.substack.com
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    35 mins
  • Understanding Anhedonia in ADHD

    Understanding Anhedonia in ADHD
    Apr 25 2025
    Understanding Anhedonia in ADHDBecause of the HIGH activity on my post about this, i am releasing this episode EARLY, SURPRISE DOPAMINE; your are welcome :) IntroductionWelcome back to Authentically ADHD, where we dive deep into topics that matter to those of us navigating life with ADHD. Today, we're exploring something that many of us can relate to, but we may be unaware of it, or are unable to explain it because its not talked about a ton, I heard about it in my new hyperfocus podcast/book by the ADHD adults UK/Unpacking ADHD by James Brown and Alex Connor & mrs AuDHD: and here it is’ anhedonia. We will talk about what it is, why we struggle and how it's more than just feeling down—it's a significant challenge that affects how we experience pleasure and joy in our daily lives.Segment 2: So, what exactly is anhedonia? According to neuroscience, it involves dysfunctions in the brain's reward system, particularly affecting the mesolimbic dopamine pathway. This pathway is crucial for experiencing pleasure and motivation. In ADHD, these dysfunctions can lead to a diminished ability to derive pleasure or reward from activities that were once enjoyable. This phenomenon can vary from mild to severe, impacting hobbies, social interactions, and even personal achievements. It's like life loses its vibrant hues, leaving everything in shades of gray.Types of Anhedonia: There are two primary types of anhedonia:Social Anhedonia: Difficulty finding pleasure in social interactions, leading to feelings of disconnection and isolation.Physical Anhedonia: Reduced pleasure from physical sensations, such as taste, touch, or sexual experiencesUnderstanding the ADHD Brain Reward SystemNeuroscience reveals that ADHD is closely linked to dysfunctions in the brain's reward system. Specifically, there's altered activity in the mesolimbic dopamine pathway, which plays a pivotal role in motivation, pleasure, and reinforcement learning. Dopamine, often referred to as the "feel-good" neurotransmitter, is crucial for signaling rewards and motivating behavior.This means that for those of us with ADHD, the experience of pleasure and the motivation to pursue rewarding activities can be fundamentally different. The reward circuits in our brains may not respond as effectively to everyday stimuli, making it challenging to experience and sustain pleasure from tasks and achievements that others find inherently satisfying.ADHD, Alexithymia, and Anhedonia: Exploring the OverlapLet’s quickly explore the intersections of ADHD with another mental health disorder, & the intriguing overlap between ADHD, alexithymia and anhedoniaUnderstanding Alexithymia and AnhedoniaAlexithymia refers to difficulties in identifying and expressing emotions. It's common among individuals with ADHD and can complicate emotional experiences, including the ability to recognize and respond to feelings of pleasure—known as anhedonia. Research indicates that these conditions often coexist, influencing how individuals perceive and process both positive and negative emotions.For many of us with ADHD, the combination of alexithymia and anhedonia can create a unique emotional landscape. It may be challenging to articulate our feelings or derive satisfaction from activities that once brought joy. This intersection underscores the complexity of ADHD beyond its core symptoms, impacting our emotional well-being and interpersonal relationships.Neuroscientific Insights[Narration]: Neuroscientific studies suggest that ADHD, alexithymia, and anhedonia share underlying neural mechanisms, particularly involving brain regions associated with emotion regulation and reward processing. Dysfunctions in these areas, such as the prefrontal cortex and limbic system, contribute to difficulties in emotional awareness and the experience of pleasure.[Carmen]: This neural overlap provides a deeper understanding of why individuals with ADHD may struggle with emotional expression and enjoyment. It's not just about behavior—it's rooted in how our brains process and integrate emotional and reward-related information.Impact on Daily LifeIn practical terms, the overlap of alexithymia and anhedonia can manifest in various ways. It may affect our ability to engage fully in social interactions, maintain meaningful relationships, and pursue personal goals with enthusiasm. Recognizing these challenges can empower individuals with ADHD to seek tailored support and strategies that address both emotional awareness and the capacity for experiencing pleasure.By acknowledging these intersections, we can better navigate the complexities of ADHD and cultivate resilience. Whether you're personally navigating these challenges or supporting someone who is, remember that understanding and empathy are key to fostering a supportive environment.The Impact of a Dysfunctional Reward SystemResearch suggests that individuals with ADHD may exhibit reduced dopamine activity in response to rewards, leading to difficulties...
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    18 mins
  • ADHD Connections: Making and Keeping Friends

    ADHD Connections: Making and Keeping Friends
    Apr 20 2025

    In this episode of Authentically ADHD, we dive into the world of friendships and explore how ADHD shapes the way we connect with others. From childhood playdates to adult coffee catch-ups, maintaining friendships can be uniquely challenging — but also deeply rewarding — for those with ADHD.

    Using insights from "Let Them" by Mel Robbins and Dr. Barkley, we unpack:

    * How Friendships Develop: Discover how ADHD traits like creativity and spontaneity influence social connections in childhood.

    * Navigating Adolescence and Adulthood: Learn how impulsivity, rejection sensitivity, and emotional regulation impact friendships as we grow up.

    * Essential Coping Skills: Find out how mindfulness, communication strategies, and self-awareness can strengthen your social bonds.

    * 5 Actionable Tips: Get practical advice on maintaining friendships, setting boundaries, and embracing your authentic self.

    Whether you’re looking to deepen your current connections or build new ones, this episode is packed with compassionate insights and relatable stories to help you thrive socially with ADHD. Tune in and take the next step toward nurturing the friendships that matter most.

    👉 Hit play now, and let’s grow together!

    LinkTree: https://linktr.ee/carmen_irace

    Show Notes:https://www.canva.com/design/DAGijO7ruOs/-GKsBUgqMS1iBEut0-owaQ/view?utm_content=DAGijO7ruOs&utm_campaign=designshare&utm_medium=link2&utm_source=uniquelinks&utlId=h2a27f603f4

    JOIN Focused: https://ihaveadhdllc.ontralink.com/t?orid=29951&opid=1

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    This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit carmenauthenticallyadhd.substack.com
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    36 mins
  • ADHD and Time Perception: The Struggle with Time Blindness

    ADHD and Time Perception: The Struggle with Time Blindness
    Apr 19 2025
    Have you ever noticed that your sense of time feels strangely elastic—sometimes minutes drag on endlessly, and other times hours vanish in a blink? If you have ADHD, this experience likely resonates deeply. This phenomenon, often called "time blindness," significantly impacts everyday life, from managing tasks and deadlines to social interactions and self-care routines.But why exactly is this such a persistent challenge for people with ADHD? Let’s delve into the neuroscience behind time perception, understand why this struggle is more pronounced for ADHDers, and explore evidence-backed strategies and tools to help navigate daily life more effectively.⏰Understanding Time Blindness In ADHD brains, several neural networks responsible for tracking and managing time are impacted, including the prefrontal cortex, basal ganglia, and cerebellum. These areas are essential for precise time estimation, maintaining attention, and executing planned actions. Neuroimaging studies have shown reduced activity in these regions among individuals with ADHD, leading to significant impairments in accurately perceiving and managing time.Dopamine dysregulation also profoundly impacts time perception. Dopamine is critical for sustaining attention, regulating motivation, and anticipating rewards. In ADHD, irregular dopamine signaling leads the brain to rely excessively on external stimulation to perceive the passing of time, causing difficulties in maintaining an internal sense of timing.🧠 The Neuroscience Behind ADHD and Time BlindnessTime perception relies on multiple interconnected brain systems, including the prefrontal cortex, basal ganglia, cerebellum, and various neurotransmitter systems—particularly dopamine. In ADHD, these areas function differently, leading to difficulties accurately sensing and managing time.Dopamine's Crucial RoleDopamine—a neurotransmitter central to reward, motivation, attention, and executive functioning—is significantly involved in perceiving and estimating time. Research shows that lower dopamine availability in ADHD brains disrupts the internal "clock," leading to inaccuracies when estimating how long tasks will take, when to start them, or how much time has passed.Prefrontal Cortex and Executive DysfunctionThe prefrontal cortex (PFC) acts as the brain’s control tower for executive functions such as planning, organizing, prioritizing, and impulse control. In ADHD, underactivity and reduced connectivity in this area contribute to difficulties projecting into the future or learning effectively from past experiences—making accurate time prediction incredibly challenging.The Basal Ganglia and Cerebellum: Timing Centers of the BrainResearch indicates that altered functioning in the basal ganglia and cerebellum affects how ADHD brains interpret durations and intervals. The basal ganglia regulate internal pacing, helping estimate intervals of seconds to minutes, whereas the cerebellum fine-tunes movement and timing in relation to tasks. Dysfunction in these regions can distort the sense of elapsed time significantly.This unique combination of neurobiological factors creates a profound experience of time blindness, impacting multiple areas of daily functioning for those with ADHD.Podcast:🚩 Common Challenges Adults with ADHD Face Due to Time BlindnessLet's explore more deeply how these neurological differences manifest in daily life.1. Chronic Underestimation of Task DurationNeuroscience explains that ADHD brains struggle to accurately recall past task durations, causing chronic underestimation. This leads individuals to believe they can finish tasks more quickly than possible, resulting in constant rushing, stress, and missed deadlines.Example: You promise yourself that preparing a presentation will take just an hour, only to find yourself scrambling after realizing it realistically requires three hours.2. Difficulty with Task InitiationThe brain’s reward system heavily influences motivation. In ADHD, tasks perceived as unrewarding fail to release sufficient dopamine, resulting in avoidance, procrastination, and eventually panic as deadlines approach.Example: You repeatedly postpone filing taxes because the task seems tedious, causing anxiety as the deadline nears.3. Hyperfocus and Lost Time AwarenessInterestingly, while routine tasks lack sufficient dopamine release, stimulating tasks cause dopamine spikes, leading to "hyperfocus." The dopamine-rich environment makes the brain lose track of time entirely, causing hours to disappear unnoticed.Example: A quick break to play your favorite video game suddenly turns into several lost hours, derailing other responsibilities.Podcast:4. Struggles with Punctuality and PlanningReduced prefrontal cortex function impairs your ability to plan ahead realistically. Making it on time for appointments or accurately predicting when you'll be available becomes a consistent challenge.Example: Despite setting multiple alarms, you consistently ...
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    5 mins
  • How ADHD and Cognitive Flexibility Clash: Navigating Task Switching with a Neurodivergent Brain

    How ADHD and Cognitive Flexibility Clash: Navigating Task Switching with a Neurodivergent Brain
    Apr 18 2025

    Hey hey, beautiful brains! In this juicy episode of Authentically ADHD, Carmen dives deep into the wild world of cognitive flexibility — that ninja-like mental skill that helps us pivot, adapt, and switch tasks smoothly. Spoiler alert: it’s not something the ADHD brain does easily. And no, you’re not just “being dramatic” — your brain is literally wired to find this hard. Like… juggling flaming torches while switching roller skates midair kind of hard.

    ✨ We’re breaking down:

    * What cognitive flexibility actually is (and why it matters)

    * The neuroscience behind why task switching fries our brains (hello, prefrontal cortex and conflict-monitoring ACC!)

    * Real-life ADHD chaos scenarios — from boardrooms to spice racks

    * Why hyperfocus isn’t a superpower (it’s a dopamine trap!)

    * And how emotional flooding, time blindness, and working memory glitches hijack our ability to “just start the next thing already”

    💡 You’ll learn:

    * Why even small interruptions can send your brain into a spiral

    * How “switching tasks” is really more like rebooting your entire operating system

    * ADHD-friendly strategies to soften those transitions — like buffer zones, transition rituals, and brain-friendly switch-prep tools

    Plus, Carmen brings the research receipts (shoutout to Barkley, Volkow, and the gang) and serves it all with humor, heart, and a whole lot of validation. If you’ve ever felt broken because your brain doesn’t pivot like everyone else’s — this episode is your permission slip to let that shame go.

    Because guess what? You’re not broken — you’re brilliantly wired for a different rhythm.

    ✨ Pause. Breathe. Shift gently. ✨

    🎧 Tune in, feel seen, and share with someone who needs to know that “just do it” isn’t a strategy — it’s a misunderstanding of how our brains actually work.

    Show Notes: https://www.canva.com/design/DAGk7n_MwWw/EfB1myWhGS7Mdex4SNg7ng/view?utm_content=DAGk7n_MwWw&utm_campaign=designshare&utm_medium=link2&utm_source=uniquelinks&utlId=h72df453386

    Linktree: https://linktr.ee/carmen_irace

    Join Focused: https://ihaveadhdllc.ontralink.com/t?orid=29951&opid=1



    This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit carmenauthenticallyadhd.substack.com
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    31 mins
  • An Authentic Interview with Robert on Coaching, Growth, and Mental Health

    An Authentic Interview with Robert on Coaching, Growth, and Mental Health
    Apr 16 2025

    Dive into the vibrant world of ADHD with "Authentically ADHD"! Hosted by Carmen, a passionate advocate and educator, this podcast explores the unique perspectives and daily triumphs of neurodivergent life. Join us for insightful discussions on navigating relationships, boosting productivity, and embracing personal growth—all through the lens of ADHD. Whether you're seeking practical tips, heartfelt stories, or simply a deeper understanding, tune in to "Authentically ADHD" and discover how to turn neurodivergent chaos into curious exploration!

    Follow me:

    Linktree:

    https://linktr.ee/carmen_irace

    Join Focused: https://ihaveadhdllc.ontralink.com/t?orid=29951&opid=1



    This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit carmenauthenticallyadhd.substack.com
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    53 mins
  • Fact vs. Fiction: The Truth About the ADHD Brain

    Fact vs. Fiction: The Truth About the ADHD Brain
    Apr 13 2025
    Introduction:* Hi there, and welcome—or welcome back—to Authentically ADHD! I’m [Your Name], your host, fellow ADHDer, and your guide through the beautifully chaotic, wildly creative, and sometimes frustrating world of the ADHD brain.* Now, let me ask you something—have you ever heard someone say, “ADHD isn’t real, it’s just an excuse,” or “Oh, everyone gets distracted sometimes”? Maybe you’ve even doubted yourself, wondering, Am I really struggling, or am I just not trying hard enough?* Well, my friend, if any of that sounds familiar, you’re in the right place. Today, we’re diving headfirst into the tangled web of myths and misconceptions that surround ADHD—the ones that leave people feeling misunderstood, dismissed, and frustrated.* But here’s the good news: we’re bringing the facts. The real, science-backed, brain-imaging, peer-reviewed, expert-approved truth about ADHD. Together, we’re going to bust these myths wide open and replace them with knowledge, empowerment, and maybe even a few lightbulb moments along the way.* Are you ready? Lets get started!Segment 1: Debunking Common MythsADHD has been misunderstood for decades, leading to myths that undermine the experiences of those who live with it. In this segment, we’ll break down two of the most common and damaging misconceptions about ADHD, using historical context and scientific research to separate fact from fiction.Myth 1: ADHD Isn't a Real Disorder—It's Just an Excuse for LazinessOne of the most pervasive myths about ADHD is that it isn’t a legitimate medical condition—that it’s just an excuse for laziness, lack of motivation, or poor self-control. But the reality is that ADHD has been recognized as a neurodevelopmental disorder by leading medical organizations, including the American Psychiatric Association (APA) and the World Health Organization (WHO).Historical Context & Scientific RecognitionADHD has been documented for centuries. As early as 1798, Scottish physician Sir Alexander Crichton described a condition in children characterized by inattentiveness and restlessness. In the early 20th century, researchers began studying what was then called “Minimal Brain Dysfunction,” a term that later evolved into ADHD as our understanding of the condition deepened.In 1968, the American Psychiatric Association formally recognized what we now know as ADHD in the second edition of the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM-II), calling it “Hyperkinetic Reaction of Childhood.” Over the decades, extensive research has led to refinements in the diagnostic criteria, demonstrating that ADHD is not just a childhood disorder but one that persists into adulthood for many individuals.Neurological Studies & Brain Imaging EvidenceThanks to advancements in neuroscience, we now have concrete evidence that ADHD is a real, measurable brain-based disorder. Brain imaging studies, including fMRI (functional magnetic resonance imaging) and PET (positron emission tomography) scans, have revealed key differences in the brains of individuals with ADHD compared to neurotypical individuals.* Structural Differences: Research shows that people with ADHD often have smaller volumes in certain brain regions, particularly the prefrontal cortex, which is responsible for executive functions like planning, impulse control, and attention regulation.* Dopamine Deficiency: ADHD is closely linked to dysfunction in the brain’s dopamine system. Dopamine is a neurotransmitter that plays a crucial role in motivation and reward processing. In people with ADHD, dopamine transporters clear the neurotransmitter too quickly, leading to difficulties with sustained attention, impulse control, and task persistence.* Delayed Brain Maturation: Studies have shown that the brains of children with ADHD tend to develop more slowly in key areas related to self-regulation and decision-making. This doesn’t mean they’re incapable—it just means their developmental timeline is different.So, ADHD isn’t an excuse—it’s a well-documented neurodevelopmental condition backed by decades of scientific research.Myth 2: ADHD Is Just a Lack of Discipline or Bad ParentingAnother damaging misconception is that ADHD is caused by a lack of discipline or ineffective parenting. This myth suggests that children (and adults) with ADHD simply need to “try harder” or that parents should be stricter to “fix” their child’s behavior. However, scientific research overwhelmingly shows that ADHD is rooted in biology, not upbringing.Biological & Genetic FactorsADHD has a strong genetic component, meaning that if a parent has ADHD, their child is significantly more likely to have it as well. Studies estimate that ADHD is about 70-80% heritable, making it one of the most genetically influenced neurodevelopmental disorders.Twin studies have been particularly revealing:* Identical twins (who share nearly 100% of their genes) are much more likely ...
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    29 mins
  • ADHD & Time

    ADHD & Time
    Apr 6 2025

    In this episode titled "ADHD & Time: Mastering Your Day with Routines," we delve into the crucial role routines play in managing time effectively for individuals with ADHD. We explore practical strategies to establish and maintain routines that enhance productivity and reduce stress. From morning rituals to evening wind-downs, we uncover how routines can create stability and improve overall well-being. Join us as we navigate the challenges and triumphs of time management through the lens of ADHD, offering insights and tips for listeners looking to harness the power of routines in their daily lives.

    More on Motivation:

    https://linktr.ee/carmen_irace

    Show notes: https://www.canva.com/design/DAGf78XQxl8/WWb7GhFnvC76rAMNHfDDHw/view?utm_content=DAGf78XQxl8&utm_campaign=designshare&utm_medium=link2&utm_source=uniquelinks&utlId=h440d19e65c



    This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit carmenauthenticallyadhd.substack.com
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    26 mins
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